Charlie Slater to return to EastEnders

Charlie Slater is to make a brief return to 'EastEnders', after leaving Albert Square at the beginning of this year

Charlie Slater is to return to 'EastEnders'.

The cab driver - played by Derek Martin - left Albert Square at the beginning of the year after daughter Kat Moon (Jessie Wallace) blamed him for the 'death' of her son Tommy.

With granddad Charlie downstairs while a party was being held at the Queen Vic pub on New Year's Eve (31.12.10), it meant disturbed Ronnie Branning could secretly swap the tot with her dead son James.

Although Kat - who is still unaware Tommy is alive and living with Ronnie (Samantha Womack) - later made peace with Charlie, he left the Square to live with eldest daughter Lynne, but will now make a brief return to Walford.

Speaking about his two-episode stint, Derek said: "Although they've had their ups and downs, Kat deeply regrets pushing Charlie away. The pair have a tearful reunion and there won't be a dry eye in the house."

Bosses of the BBC One soap are keeping the door open for more future appearances from Charlie once his latest stint on the Square is over.